Springfield -- On December 11th, 2014, the Governor's Green Governments Coordinating Council awarded 19 state agencies and public institutions Green Governments Awards in recognition of outstanding environmental leadership and innovative sustainability accomplishments.

Congratulations to these 2014 award recipients on their work in making Illinois a more Green State!

In addition, the GGCC is happy to announce the release of the 2014 Annual Report. The report celebrates state agencies accomplishments in sustainability and highlights areas that require more attention in 2015.

Chicago - Governor Pat Quinn today announced an investment of $1 million to establish a network of charging stations for electric vehicles along historic Route 66 through Illinois. The network will support commuter and tourist driving for the growing electric vehicle (EV) sector. Today’s announcement is part of Governor Quinn’s agenda to drive Illinois toward a sustainable future.

“We are building a 21st century infrastructure across Illinois and we need to make sure that it is sustainable for future generations,” Governor Quinn said. “This new project exemplifies Illinois’ place as the innovation capital of the Midwest, with cutting-edge business practices that create jobs and encourage sustainability.”

Oglesby - Governor Pat Quinn today announced the acquisition of a 51-acre parcel of land adjacent to Starved Rock State Park that will provide additional wildlife space and serve as a buffer to protect the park. The Governor also announced wildlife habitat land acquisition in Edgar, Woodford and Jackson Counties and improvement projects at state parks operated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR). Today’s announcement is part of Governor Quinn’s agenda to protect our natural areas and expand outdoor activities for the people of Illinois.

“Starved Rock State Park is one of our most beautiful natural areas, and this property acquisition will protect the land we have while increasing the space available for state park users to enjoy,” Governor Quinn said. “In addition, the investments in central, eastern and southern Illinois will greatly expand wildlife habitat in these regions and ensure that generations to come will be able to enjoy Illinois’ great outdoors.”

Deerfield - Governor Pat Quinn today signed the U.S. Department of Energy’s “Workplace Charging Challenge Pledge” which aims to increase the number of employers offering workplace electric vehicle (EV) charging stations by 2018. The Governor’s action will increase EV charging stations at state facilities, which will help reduce harmful emissions, improve the environment and protect our state’s natural resources.

“We are building a world-class infrastructure in Illinois and that includes making sure our vehicles are energy efficient,” Governor Quinn said. “This pledge will encourage employers across Illinois to consider the benefits of electric vehicles and help make Illinois a cleaner, healthier place to live and work.”

Chicago - Governor Quinn announced Stair Week at the kick-off of the 2nd Annual BUILDINGChicago/Greening the Heartland Conference on Monday, September 29th. The Governor encouraged the use of stairs instead of elevators, keeping with Illinois’ commitment to citizens’ health and well-being and a more sustainable, energy-efficient environment.

Schools, county health departments, businesses, and community organizations, such as the YMCA and United Way, strongly support Stair Week, recognizing its health benefits. Taking the stairs is safe and accessible exercise that helps individuals attain overall fitness which, in turn, reduces the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity, osteoporosis, and other diseases.

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The public policy of the State and the duty of each person is to provide and maintain a healthful environment for the benefit of this and future generations.